S-Pod from Swift: A cutting-edge compact static caravan?

If the BBC hadn’t already owned the copyright to the name, this could have been called the S-Tardis because, believe us, Swift has managed to pack a whole lot into a very compact space.

Launched to the public for the first time at The Lawns show (6 – 12 Sep) near Hull this year, the concept of the S-Pod is one of endless possibilities; for short weekend breaks on a holiday park or even at home as a garden room (Note Leisuredays could only insure S-Pods sited on a licensed holiday site).

For starters, Swift is launching two editions – a 2-berth and 5-berth model, both measuring 10ft x 14ft.

The exterior is smart to look at with CanExel high density wood composite cladding with durable, realistic wood graining in a colour Swift call Sierra, allowing the S-Pod to blend into its surroundings.

PVC gutters and downpipes remove water from the one piece sloping roof and a fully glazed front aspect gives a contemporary feel.

LED canopy downlights illuminate any decking area the customer may wish to have fitted.

Thermaglas UPVC double glazed windows and 60mm bonded walls give increased thermal efficiency and all pipework is lagged. The S-Pod stands on a fully glavanised AL-KO chassis with a ten year warranty. It features both wheels and a detatchable towbar, allowing it to be hitched up and moved from place to place simply and efficiently.

Walking through the front door, you are immediately impressed by the amount of room created in such a small space. A comfortable double settee features an ingenious mechanism to fold it away allowing a double bed to be pulled down over it. Colours are a stylish and contemporary mix of browns and blues with patterned panels and a mid-grey wall finish.

The 2-berth Pod has an L-shaped kitchen with four burner hob, oven and fridge in stylish black, a circular stainless steel sink and microwave. On the 5-berth unit, the kitchen is replaced with an L-shaped seating area with over bunk. This converts into a small bed, allowing three children to sleep in this area.

The S-Pod even manages an entertainment area with fold away table, dedicated TV position allowing viewing from bed or sofa and a shelving unit. The floor is in French Oak vinyl and is claimed to be hard wearing. Washing facilities comprise a large quadrant shower enclosure, stylish round hand basin with storage under, taps and a modern flushing toilet. A mirrored cabinet with small shelves is positioned above the hand basin. A water heater provides hot water and the bathroom contains a contemporary looking heated towel rail.

Verdict

Swift has managed to surprise with this innovative, self-contained and very flexible living space. The possibilities for future development are endless and I think they’re onto a real winner. The S-Pod is truly an ‘amazing space’ – even George Clarke would be impressed!

What do you think of Swift’s S-Pod? Is this the static caravan of the future?Join the debate and have your say in the comment box below.

Ex works price: £20,995 inc VAT*

*Additional charges will be made by park operators, and/or distributors for transportation, siting and annual maintenance. Please check the price carefully before you commit to purchase, as prices vary considerably dependent, amongst other factors, on the geographical location of your chosen park.

Seems rather expensive for what it is, compared to say a 35 x 12 static. Also for something having a floor area that’s approx a third of that of a 35 x 12 static, I just wonder how Site Operators would apply annual charges for it vs statics.

Can’t see it catching on after the initial interest has passed by. As Bernard pointed out, only a third of the floor space as your average static, could not see myself getting totally relaxed in it. Looks like a posh tourer that’s run off the rails, sorry.

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